Whitley had 30 tackles, four interceptions and a forced fumble in eight games this season before missing the last two games against Tennessee-Martin and Alabama.

Although the SEC West has been stacked this year, it’s nevertheless been a rough season for a team that had higher expectations following a nine-win season a year ago and Gator Bowl victory. MSU’s best chances at getting back to a bowl this year likely come in their season-ending game against Ole Miss.